Mr. Ball was a farmer, inventor and respected citizen who instilled confidence in his sons, and assured them that they would succeed in whatever they undertook. Mrs. Ball, a school teacher, gave her children love, inspiration and direction. She urged them to go into business together. The five Ball brothers established a company in 1880 that would go on to become a household name. Each of the brothers contributed unique talents and expertise to their successful venture.
Edmund B. Ball - 1855-1925. Borrowed $200 from his Uncle George to buy the Wooden Jacket Can Co., the forerunner of what would become Ball Corporation. Served as secretary and treasurer of the incorporated Ball Brothers Glass Manufacturing Company. Ed was well-liked by plant employees, who once presented him with a gold pocket watch in appreciation for his efforts. Ed was known for his humanitarian strengths, although he preferred to stay in the background of his many community affairs. It was his wish that the Ball Brothers Foundation be organized, and from his estate came its original funding. The foundation's first major project, Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie, was completed four years after his death. His son, Edmund F. Ball, went on to serve the company as chairman, president and CEO for 18 years.
Frank C. Ball - 1857-1943. An early salesman for the Wooden Jacket Can Co., Frank was responsible for moving the family from Buffalo, N.Y., to Muncie, Ind., in 1887. Frank served as the first company president, and remained in that capacity for 63 years.
George A. Ball - 1862-1955. During his long and active lifetime, he served the company as bookkeeper, secretary, treasurer, vice president, president and board chairman. He participated in the company's evolution from kerosene cans and fruit jars to the threshold of the space age. He served on the boards of numerous organizations including Borg-Warner Corporation, Nickel Plate Railroad, various banks, Indiana University, Ball State Teachers College (today, Ball State University) and Ball Memorial Hospital. In 1935, he became the owner of a railroad empire. He was also involved in politics, and was a Republican national committeeman from Indiana for several years.
Lucius L. Ball - 1850-1932. Fulfilled his lifelong ambition (after he had seen to it that his younger brothers and sisters were educated and established) to study and become a physician at the age of 40. He was a quiet, thoughtful, compassionate man with a shy sense of humor. In addition to his private medical practice, he served as medical adviser for the Western Reserve Life Insurance Company (then located in Muncie, Ind.).
William C. Ball - 1852-1921. Had a reputation as being a tremendously effective salesman. He served the company as salesman and its secretary until his death at age 69.